Dad

Over the weekend he was very unwell, and yesterday he expressed the view that he would like to go soon.

Tonight he got his wish, and slipped peacefully away.

RIP JQ. 7/8/1931 — 16/8/2010.

Update Tuesday 8:40am:

Thank you all for your thoughts.

I thought I’d just highlight a post from 2008 where I noted one of the influences my dad had on me: My dad and the trains

The other one was computers. He didn’t understand them, but he could see it was important to enable me to pursue my interests, and thus he helped fund my first three: the Vic 20, the Commodore 64, and the BBC Micro.

My condolences Daniel. This will be a difficult time for you, just know that we are thinking and praying for you and your family. As someone who lost his father 24 years ago, it is not easy to go through life without your parents, but you learn and move on. I was rather unfortunate to lose both my parents by the time that I was 6, and it does define who you are. The best thing you can do to honour your father is to live a life that he’d be proud of, and never forget his legacy. Do him proud, and never forget him. May God Bless.

I’m so sorry to hear that, Daniel. In my mind, 79 still seems too young but it’s clear that he had a great influence on you and would be very proud. Feel free to cry, vent and lose yourself to grief for a while, and don’t knock back any offers to bring over dinner, help out or have the kids off your hands to rest.

Condolences Daniel, I lost my farther last year and similarly my Dad was ready to go at 82, I guess we have to take comfort that they had long productive lives and didn’t suffer toward the end like some.

Very sorry to hear. My deepest condolences, Daniel. I remember the last time I read a post about your dad, I think he was moving house and had too many books. Anyway, I don’t think any of this helps, but that post did make me wonder about your dad and he certainly seems to have been a good influence in your life. RIP JQ.

Daniel, so sorry to hear about your dad. How lovely that he didn’t suffer long and was able to pass away with tenderness and dignity. Best wishes to you and your family and all those who cared for your dad. Condolences.

Sad news I hope you’re fine, I know you feel sad with what happened losing the most important and influential man in your life. I also lost my dad and it hurts because he got lost somewhere and was never found. I know that you’re dad now is in some place beautiful and nice. Let’s pray for him and never lose faith. He must be a great man having a son who writes very well.

I’m so sorry to hear of your loss. It sounds like you will have some good memories of him and that he lived his life well. All the best for you and your family in this difficult time. I always love quoting Tolkien’s poem – the Road goes ever on and on – the version that Bilbo sang as he left the Shire for good –

The Road goes ever on and on
Down from the door where it began.
Now far ahead the Road has gone,
And I must follow, if I can,
Pursuing it with eager feet,
Until it joins some larger way
Where many paths and errands meet.
And whither then? I cannot say.

Still round the corner there may wait
A new road or a secret gate,
And though I oft have passed them by,
A day will come at last when I
Shall take the hidden paths that run
West of the Moon, East of the Sun.

I am so sorry and wanted to offer my condolences. It seems your Dad was a substanial influence on you and you appear to have shared a great relationship with him over the years. He was a fortunate parent, and I am sure very proud of the legacy he leaves in you and your sons.
Love and sympathy to you and your loved ones.

I’m saddened to hear of your dad’s death, Daniel. I remember you writing about him in the past, and thinking how much like him you are (based on that photo, at least). There’s nothing I can say that hasn’t been said, so I will simply add my condolences to you and your family.

Sorry to hear about your dad, Daniel. My grandfather also died suddenly of pneumonia at about the same age. I still think about him all the time. Best wishes to you and your family during this rough time.